Problem Statement:
Meharry Medical College based the Turner Family Center building on bringing people together to learn and collaborate. The college’s goal is to use this center to plan medical, dental, biomedical, civic, social and educational conferences at a local and national level. Previously, these events were facilitated at various venues throughout the city. The new building would allow all of these functions to happen on campus in one location. This center is envisioned as a hub for the Nashville community to gather, discuss and collaborate on solutions to global healthcare challenges.

The site is located on the western edge of campus, adjacent to the university’s commencement park space. All of the current campus facilities are simple rectilinear forms. Our concept takes the simple rectilinear form and activates it with circulation, spaces and forms that physically and visually connect this building with student life on campus.

The new building features a 500 seat auditorium, 600 seat ballroom, study and classroom spaces, a food court, visitor center, offices and meeting/conference spaces for all levels of university functions. All of these spaces are interconnected by a three story glass atrium. The atrium is joined by a circulation system that allows all who experience the building to see the engagement happening within. These balconies and stair connections also function as breakout and study areas for the various building programs.
The overall solid exterior is fenestrated with small vertical patterns similar to a DNA sequence. The solid envelope is carved away by flowing sculptural forms that highlight internal connections and movement. These ideas come together to create a series of spaces that emphasize collaboration and connectivity. The building has become a great new student space that truly allows hearts and minds to come together.